Kidnapping Charges in Fort Worth

Kidnapping is a third-degree felony in Fort Worth, carrying a punishment range of 2-10 years in prison. Kidnapping occurs when a person intentionally or knowingly “abducts” another person.

What does it mean to “abduct” under Texas law?

Abduct means to “restrain” a person with intent to prevent his liberation by holding him where he is not likely to be found or by using deadly force.

What does it mean to restrain a person under Texas law?

In Texas, “restrain” means to restrict a person’s movements without consent so as to interfere substantially with the person’s liberty by moving the person from one place to another, or by confining the person. See Penal Code Section 20.01(1) and Penal Code Section 20.03.

This definition is a little counterintuitive because it seems to cover a lot more than just restraint. For example, if a defendant places this woman in the trunk of his car without her consent, and then either keeps her there, or drives off with her, the defendant has restrained her according to the penal code definition. Restraint without consent is accomplished by force, intimidation, or deception. Restraint without consent is also accomplished by any means, including acquiescence or agreement of the victim if it is a child, 14 or younger, or an incompetent person and the parent or guardian has not agreed to the movement or confinement. Restraint without consent is also accomplished by any means including acquiescence. Notice that you don’t have to physically move someone from one place to another in order to abduct them. You merely need to hold them in a place where they’re not likely to be found.